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Legal Intern Cover Letter Examples

With our legal intern cover letter examples and writing tips, you can increase your chances of landing a job interview!

Gabriela Hernandez
Written by Gabriela Hernandez
Last Updated: July 2, 2025

STEP 1

Format your cover letter’s header correctly

First, your legal intern cover letter must include a header with key details like the letter's date, recipient, and a formal greeting. This header follows the standard business letter format and conveys professionalism.

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Strong cover letter header example:

April 10, 2025

 

Ms. Clara Jenkins

Legal Internship Coordinator

Law Offices of Smith & Brown

123 Main Street, Suite 400

New York, NY 10001

 

Dear Ms. Jenkins,

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Weak cover letter header example:

Chris Jonson
Caltech
Los Angelis, CA, 90001
(123) 456-7890
chris.jonsn@emailcom
Date: April 09, 2025
To Whom ti May Concern,
Lager & Filer, P.C.
2670 West 5th Streeet
Seaatle, WA, 98765

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PRO TIP

If you can't find the hiring manager's name, you can address your cover letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.“ but never use the generic “To Whom It May Concern.“

STEP 2

Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph

The way you introduce yourself to hiring managers in your cover letter's opening paragraph will set the tone for the rest of your letter. Stand out by mentioning key skills and qualifications, and state your interest in the particular legal intern position.

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Strong opening paragraph example:

As a law student with an extensive academic background in business law and a year of internship experience, I am excited to apply for the Legal Intern position at Greenfield & Myers LLP. My dedication to legal research and client support is strengthened by successfully assisting in reducing case backlog by 15% last summer. I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to your esteemed firm.

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Weak opening paragraph example:

Hey there, I'm interested in the legal intern role at Legal Solutions Ltd. I'm eager to bring my skills and possibly valuable insight, despite being kinda new to the field.

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PRO TIP

Do you know someone in your target company who would be willing to vouch for you? Check out how to approach referrals with these example referral cover letter openings.

STEP 3

Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph

Your cover letter's body paragraph should include unique achievements you didn't already mention on your resume. There's so much you can do with this section: share your long-term career goals, share anecdotes demonstrating your work ethic or commitment to the job, or narrate the story of your career growth so far.

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Strong body paragraph example:

While interning at XYZ Law Firm, I demonstrated strong legal research and writing skills, contributing to briefs that helped reduce case backlogs by 15%. By meticulously analyzing legal documents, I ensured a 98% accuracy rate in filings, streamlining workflow and enhancing case outcomes. My adaptability and attention to detail allowed me to navigate complex cases efficiently, supporting attorneys in high-stakes litigation. I am eager to leverage these skills in your distinguished firm's legal environment.

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Weak body paragraph example:

I am applying for the legal intern position because I really need to gain experience in the legal field. I've heard a lot about this company, and I think it might be a good place to start. I haven't worked in legal roles before, but I believe I can learn quickly. I think I can manage the tasks required.

STEP 4

Finish by encouraging next steps

Finally, you'll finish your cover letter with a closing paragraph summarizing your top strengths and interest in an interview. Use a professional sign-off and sign your name. Done!

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Strong closing paragraph:

With a solid foundation in legal research and an unwavering commitment to excellence, I am eager to contribute to the legal team at Anderson & Associates. My academic achievements and passion for the law align well with your firm's values. I am excited about the possibility of discussing how I can support your team further. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Emily Carter

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Weak closing paragraph:

I think I might be okay as a legal intern at your firm even though I'm still learning a lot about the law. I hope you find my application interesting enough to get back to me. Thanks for taking the time to review my application.
Kind regards,
Alex Johnson

Our professional advice makes writing a cover letter easy, but the fastest and most efficient way is with our Cover Letter Builder. Take advantage of key features like integrated spell-check, unlimited cloud storage and customizable professional templates.

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About the Author

Gabriela Hernandez large profile photo

Gabriela Hernandez CPRW, Career Advice Writer

Gabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She focuses on helping job seekers improve their professional resumes to highlight their unique skills and experience. Gabriela holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of Puerto Rico and offers more than four years of specialized experience helping candidates navigate the complexities of today’s online job market, with a strong focus on resume optimization and effective self-presentation.

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